INTRODUCING THE 2026 FARMING FUTURES COMMITTEE

Chairperson - Audrey McPherson

Vice-Chairperson - Molly Spencer

Secretary - Victoria Wythes

Treasurer - Damian Abou-Antoun

Public Relations Coordinator - Poppy Starr

Publicity Coordinator - Isabelle Willis

Schools Program Coordinators - Bella O’Brien, Jack Ferguson & Lucy Beckett

Careers Fair Coordinators - Georgia Minato, Max Christie, Lily Moore

Industry Dinner Coordinators - Georgie Cronin, Amelia Ramsey & Millicent Beattie

2026 CHAIRPERSONS WELCOME

Farming Futures is a remarkable example of what happens when passionate university students come together with a shared vision: to connect people, create opportunities, and celebrate the future of Australian agriculture. Since its inception in 2011, Farming Futures has built a strong reputation for hosting events that are inclusive, engaging, and forward-thinking. Events that inspire careers, foster innovation, and strengthen ties between students and industry.

In 2026, our committee is focused on making Farming Futures more impactful than ever. Guided by our vision, we are committed to delivering exceptional events that showcase the diversity of modern agriculture, highlight innovation, and provide tangible pathways into rewarding careers. Our aim is to create spaces where every student feels they belong, whether they come from a farming background or are discovering agriculture for the first time.

Across the year, we host three flagship events. In May, the Schools Program introduces high school students to the breadth of opportunities agriculture has to offer, sparking curiosity, encouraging further study, and connecting them to potential career pathways. In July, the Careers Fair and Industry Dinner provide university and graduate students with unparalleled networking opportunities, structured industry engagement, and personal and professional development. These two events, including Australia’s largest student-run agricultural careers fair, have proven to be launchpads for careers and collaborations that benefit both students and businesses alike.

For me, Farming Futures has always been more than an event series, it is a bridge. It connects students to mentors, employers, and peers; it connects industry to its future workforce; and it connects people to a community that values leadership, innovation, and inclusion. In 2026, we are determined to strengthen this bridge even further, leaving a legacy that will set future committees up for even greater success.

None of this would be possible without the dedication of our student committee, the generosity of our sponsors, and the vision of businesses and organisations who believe in supporting young people.

Your involvement is not only an investment in our students, it is an investment in the resilience and growth of Australian agriculture.

On behalf of the 2026 committee, I invite you to join us in Armidale this May and July, and be part of shaping the future of our industry.